Smartphones for Father’s Day

Cnet

June 6, 2015

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Smartphones for Father’s Day

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Samsung Galaxy Note 4

Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

The good: The 5.7-inch Galaxy Note 4 has a brilliant high-resolution screen and takes excellent outdoor shots on its 16-megapixel camera with optical image stabilization. Using the stylus is more convenient, and the battery charges very quickly.

The bad: Low light and indoor shots aren’t as good as they should be. The Note 4 costs significantly more than some other phablets, like the LG G3.

The cost: $230 (with two-year contract) to $700

The bottom line: The Samsung Galaxy Note 4 will thrill anyone who loves a fast phone with a large screen, but it’s best for compulsive scribblers willing to pay a lot for its winning stylus.

Apple iPhone 6 Plus

Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

The good: The big battery provides long life, and the 5.5-inch screen is not only big but bright and high-contrast. Optical image stabilization improves low-light photography.

The bad: The size may not be for everybody, and the overall design is less distinctive than previous iPhones.

The cost: $300 (with two-year contract) to $750

The bottom line: The iPhone 6 Plus is an outstanding choice for those with big budgets and big pockets, but power users seeking even more flexibility should try the Galaxy Note 4 as well.

The bad: That supercool design comes with a big price tag, and the screen doesn’t deliver any real killer apps. Like the regular S6, the Edge doesn’t have swappable batteries or expandable storage.

The cost: $400 (with two-year contract) to $860

The bottom line: Samsung’s striking high-end Galaxy S6 Edge has the beauty, brains and brawn to take down the iPhone 6 and all the Android competition.

Google Nexus 6

Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5

The good: The Nexus 6 has a razor-sharp and expansive display, a top-of-the-line Snapdragon 805 processor, the latest Lollipop OS and an optical image stabilization in the camera, making for great outdoor photos.

The bad: The Nexus is heavier and wider than most big smartphones, and its call volume is low on audio speaker. And it’s the most expensive Nexus model.